Singer Mustafa opens up on ailing mother and mjengo hustle video

Musician Colonel Mustafa poses for a photo during his heyday. [Courtesy]

He said his mother was diagnosed with cancer early last year.

"She called me up and said she needed a checkup since she was vomiting and feeling weighed down. Then, I was living in a bedsitter and running a shop as I waited for the entertainment scene to open up after the Covid-19 showbiz lull.

"I moved in with her at my brother's house, which is slightly bigger than mine. We had to save all we had towards chemotherapy medical expense. She is old and in desperate need of help. My family comes first. Before music and all the fame, my mum was with me and so I would do anything for her. Now that my friends asked if they can create a medical fund for my mum, I accepted and I am greatful to all who have supported us," he said.

Scores of stars have also defended Mustafa's move, terming it brave and selfless.

Music Copyright Society of Kenya CEO Ezekiel Mutua hailed Mustafa's courage. "I have mad love and respect for people who face life head-on and do what a man has got to do to put food on the table. There is absolutely no shame in taking up a 'mjengo' project to feed yourself and loved ones. Unlike other celebrities, Mustafa has refused to wallow in self-pity and is not ashamed of his hustle. And by the way, 'mjengo' is not necessarily for failures. It is a job like any other. But it takes courage for a celebrity of the caliber of Mustafa to take to such menial activities with pride," Dr Mutua said.

"He is not a member of MCSK but that does not stop me from helping him. He has such a clean heart and you can tell he is a genuine person. What is most important for now is to get help for his mother," said Mutua.

Deux Vultures; Nasty Thomas, real name Thomas Konzanga, and Colonel Mustafa. [File, Standard]

Their other hit songs included Kinyaunyau, Mufupi, Kapatikana, Katika, Teremka and Adhiambo C.

In 2008, Mustafa embarked on a solo project as Nasty Thomas quit music. The following year Mustafa enjoyed success after Ogopa released his Hey Baby, a seductive love song, featuring his then singer girlfriend Marya.

He has since released other hits like Loboko with his latest hit Maloko hitting the scene last year.

His last paid show was in 2019 before the Covid-19 outbreak. The singer is not married, but has a partner with whom they live separately.